Risk Factors for Development of Incisional Hernia in Transverse Incisions

RESEARCH PROJECT OBJECTIVES The aim of this planned study is to evaluate factors, with particular reference to surgical technique of abdominal closure, accumulation of advanced glycation end products, and collagen content in the transversalis fascia, that are associated with the development of incisional hernias after transverse epigastric incisions in patients operated due to malignant tumors. RESEARCH PROJECT METHODOLOGY: The study is designed as prospective and is planned to include 392 patients undergoing abdominal surgery due to malignant tumors of the alimentary system performed through transverse incisions in the epigastrium. Primary end-point of the study is defined as the occurrence of burst abdomen during immediate postoperative period or incisional hernia over 2 year postoperative follow-up. Assessment of the association between the type of surgical technique and development of hernia will be based on comparison of mass (1 layer) continuous suture and layered (2 layers) continuous suture using slowly absorbable material and applying suture to wound length ratio of more than 4. Type of the utilized surgical technique will be based on randomization. The method of abdominal closure will remain unknown for patients and investigators assessing the presence of incisional hernias. Assessment of overall collagen content and type I to type III ratio will be performed by obtaining a fragment of tissue during operation, preparation of formalin-fixed and paraffin embedded blocks, cutting of 4-micrometer thick sections, staining with picrosirius red and immunohistochemical procedures. Images will be analyzed with dedicated computer software. Accumulation of advanced glycation end products will be evaluated indirectly by measuring skin autofluorescence utilizing a method based on the use of photodiodes. Postoperative follow-up will include the period of postoperative hospitalization and two additional control visits at 1 and 2 years after the operation. Assessment of